By Fever Pitch Reporter
Following the cancellation of Autocross sixth round and subsequent postponement of the event by Autocross Commission to October 20-21, Sunday’s round seven could be key in wrapping up the series, with front-runner Kyle Lucas targeting his first championship.
He holds at bay Charles Mugo, albeit with a small margin of seven points, and is not ready to rest on his laurels, at least not in today’s encounter at the Jamhuri Park track, which is organised by Kenya Motor Sports Club.
Samir Khan in his buggy and Ben Muchemi in a Mitsubishi Evo8 rally car are third and fourth. Muchemi returns to Jamhuri today leading five crews branded in Safaricom colours.
“This time round I’m using a different car. I have picked on a pickup truck dubbed ‘Kenya Juu’. It is unique and Asad Anwar is one of the competitors who used to drive it. I am ready for the challenge though,” said Muchemi.
Samir, who was tipped for the championship this season, has seen the title slip through his fingers with Muchemi taking pole position in the first two rounds picking up two bonus points by posting fastest time of the day in both outings.
Muchemi, however, lost this advantage by not participating in the next two rounds in Migaa and Mombasa. The trend did not challenge for Muchemi when he return missed out a podium spot.
Keith Henry, the 2011 champion, only took part in the first outing and has not been around since. That sabbatical will end today as he has promised a comeback. Henry experienced engine failure in Migaa.
Junior Champion
Charles Mugo, the defending Junior Champion, is running for his second title. He has opened a wide gap of 24 points at the leaderboard ahead of his competitors. This has left the battle to shift to the second spot pitting Eugene Maina, who faced engine failure, against Rai family duo of Rajbir and Amanraj Rai.
Both Rajbir and Amanraj have stepped on the gas pedal accelerating from their opponents on their shared buggy.
The number of participants in the 2012 season has averaged 30 entries in a race with several new drivers coming on board.
Autocross is seen as the ideal entry point in rallying as participation and running costs are reasonable.
The club event recently run by Rallye Sports Club at Juja Farm saw the entry of renowned rally driver Baldev Chagar sweep to the podium in his SPV taking advantage of good straight sections.
“It will be a great to see the rally icons show off their skill at this weekends championship event. It is a great picnic opportunity so come with the family and have a great day out and cheer on your heroes.” said Antony Coline, the Chairman of Autocross Commission.
